The Nurse and NHS Direct

The Nurse

Most surgeries or health centres have at least one nurse in residence. It can often be quicker and easier to make an appointment with her, rather than a GP. Practice nurses are usually very experienced and highly skilled. The majority are now also allowed to prescribe medication too.

See your practice nurse if

1. You or your child has an ongoing condition such as diabetes, eczema or asthma. Many practice nurses have expertise in these areas and will give regular checks and advice on new treatments.
2. You want your baby or child to be immunised - or just want more information about immunisation.
3. Your child has a minor symptom or condition that's bothering you.
4. You want a smear test or advice about contraception or sexual health.
5. You're going on holiday and need vaccinations.

NHS Direct

You can phone NHS Direct any time of the day or night and speak to a nurse who will give you advice or refer you to someone in your area who can help.

Phone NHS Direct if

1. Someone falls ill late at night or on a public holiday - when all other services are closed.
2. You think it's serious, but not serious enough to call an ambulance or dash to Casualty.
3. You're panicking and not sure what to do.

- Call 0845 46 47 647 (calls cost a maximum of 5p per minute from a BT landline).
- Or go to www.nhsdirect.co.uk

- Read more: tips for dealing with your doctor